Pocopson officials talk bike safety

POCOPSON — Cool fall days and beautiful foliage entice us to “go for a ride” on back country roads. Township officials are asking residents to exercise caution and adhere to the new state bicycle law.

At a recent Pocopson Township Board of Supervisors meeting, Chair Steve Conary reminded motorists of the law’s requirement to leave a 4-foot “cushion of safety” when passing a bicyclist.

According to the Pennsylvania Department Of Transportation (PennDOT), drivers may cross over the center line into the opposite lane in order to achieve the 4-foot cushion, however, only when opposing traffic allows. Drivers attempting to turn left must also yield the right of way to bicycle riders traveling in the opposite direction.

The law calls for bicycle riders to use all reasonable efforts to avoid impeding the normal flow of traffic. When there is only one travel lane, bicyclists may use any portion of the lane to avoid hazards on the roadway, including maintaining a safe distance from stopped and parked cars.

As always, bicyclists and motorists should obey all traffic signs and signals. PennDOT also recommends bicyclists always ride predictably and signal their intentions before proceeding so that motorists have a chance to react.